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EU Launches New Sanctions Framework Targeting Hamas
The Council of the European Union has established a framework that will allow the bloc to penalise any individual or entity who supports, facilitates or enables violent actions by Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ).
Under the new regime, the EU may target those who support, materially or financially, Hamas or the PIJ. It may also target those who participate in the planning, preparation or enabling of violent actions by Hamas or the PIJ.
In addition to these rules, which will remain in place until January 19, 2025, the Council designated six individuals of different nationalities for providing financial support to Hamas.
Included are Sudan-based financier Abdelbasit Hamza Elhassan Mohamed Khair; owner of Shuman for Currency Exchange SARL Nabil Chouman; the former's son, Khaled Chouman; senior Hamas financier Rida Ali Khamis; senior Hamas operative Musa Dudin and Algeria-based financier Aiman Ahmad Al Duwaik.
Those designated under the sanctions regime are subject to an asset freeze, meaning that the provision of funds or economic resources — directly or indirectly — to them or for their benefit is prohibited.
Trustly Completes SlimPay Merger Following Regulatory Approval In France
Stockholm-based open banking provider Trustly has merged with France’s SlimPay following regulatory approvals from the French Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority (ACPR).
The merger will bring together Trustly's open banking platform, which is currently used by international brands including eBay and Booking.com, with SlimPay’s recurring payments technology.
The acquisition follows the launch of Trustly Azura, a payments engine that enhances user experiences through personalisation and data optimisation.
The addition of SlimPay's capabilities is expected to further augment the network effect of Azura, providing an easier and more efficient payment process for an expanding customer base.
Through the merger, Trustly aims to deliver faster and more convenient payments to consumers, as Trustly's presence at checkout means no more manual detail entry.
